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INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE GROUP
The primary objective of the LBNL laser safety program is to ensure that no laser radiation in excess of the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limit reaches the human eye or skin. The Laser safety program requires that all lasers and laser systems be operated in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1, Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers, as well as other applicable regulations. These requirements for laser safety are complex and include engineering controls, administrative controls, medical surveillance, and training. To implement the laser safety program properly while giving the greatest possible latitude to the researcher, all laser operations at LBNL must be reviewed and approved by the LBNL Laser Safety Officer (LSO).
All lasers must be entered into the Laser Management System (LMS). The LMS is an online system to help laser users, EH&S staff and regulatory agencies keep an accurate inventory of the lasers present and in use in lab facilities.
Activity Hazard Documents (AHD) are critical to the implementation of an effective laser safety program and are required for the operation of any 3b or 4 laser (Consult the LSO for exceptions). An AHD is a formal authorization and a safety document that describes the hazards of, and controls for the lasers in your work area. Your PI is responsible for its preparation. You must read and understand it and you are required to comply with its provisions. AHDs are renewed annually or whenever a significant change is hazard occurs. The AHD database is used to track, review, and maintain Activity Hazard Documents over the web.
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